Boxing
Argentine Boxing Federation suspends Lazarte, apologizes to Filipinos
The president of the Argentine Boxing Federation (ABF) has suspended former IBF light flyweight champion Luis Lazarte and apologized to Filipinos for the post-fight riot in Mar del Plata. Johnriel Casimero won the interim title with a 10th round TKO of Lazarte.
ABF president Osvaldo Bisbal informed InterAKTV that the Disciplinary Tribunal of the Federation had issued a preventive suspension to Lazarte. Earlier, the International Boxing Federation banned Lazarte for life although the ban can only be effective in fights under the aegis of the IBF.
Bisbal said the preventive suspension shall have effect unless Lazarte makes a declaration in a timely manner before the Federation’s tribunal.
At the same time, Bisbal sent a letter to the Games and Amusements Board (GAB).
“We are deeply sorry for all that happened to the Philippine delegation which is a nation close to us and where we have several friends and feel deep fondness,” said in the letter.
Bisbal also said that they repudiate these types of violence and blamed those he described as a few delinquent people who have stained Argentine boxing.
At the same time, the ABF president claimed that the IBF had ignored this institution in the approval of this bout dealing directly with the promoter. He said they were in a dilemma on whether to approve or not to approve the fight. It was finally carried out of respect due to the Philippine delegation.
Bisbal disclosed that they had started an investigation into the events that happened and will request the Argentine justice authorities to investigate the participants involved in the riot.
In conclusion, Bisbal said he felt ashamed and on behalf of Argentinian boxing and himself he extended his apologies to the Philippine delegation and to all Filipino citizens.
